Whilst the big news of the day has been the story of Arsenal sending a delegation to Germany in order to wrap up a deal for Julian Draxler, seemingly other work is being done to ensure if this move can’t be done in January, something else will for the Gunners.

An alarming lack of pace for Arsenal in last night’s 2-2 draw with Southampton has clearly alerted Arsene Wenger into pushing for a deal for the 20 year old German from Schalke. However, due to the size of the transfer and Schalke’s reluctance to let their prize possession leave midway through the season, Arsenal have been forced to have a backup plan just in case.

Vucinic

Marko Vucinic of Juventus has been training away from the first team as the Italian champions seem prepared to let him go in this window. Arsenal have been linked with the striker ever since it was reported he would be available but it appears only on loan.

Juventus would clearly rather sell the player for an outright fee and a swap move with Inter Milan for midfielder Fredy Guarin fell through earlier this month. Arsenal are seemingly only interested in a loan move as cover for Theo Walcott’s injury. If the deadline is approaching and Arsenal haven’t signed a player a move for Vucinic will be on the cards.

Morata

When February arrives Arsenal fans will no longer be constantly reading the words ‘Alvaro Morata’. Unless he signs for the club which today once again became a very slight reality. It seemed a safe bet at the start at the window to assume the striker would arrive on loan as it would suit both clubs.

However, an injury to striker Jese and talk of a preference to go to Italy seemed to put an end to the speculation. Nevertheless, with no move to Italy on the horizon and still a distinct lack of game time for Morata, there has encouragement today that his representatives have sought Arsenal out for a possibility that a deal could still be done.

Here We Go Again

If there was one guarantee in this transfer market it was that Arsenal would do their business as close to the last day as they could. The absence of pace in the team in last night’s game at Southampton was extremely obvious and must be addressed if a title challenge is to be made.

Draxler would undoubtedly bring that pace to the team and all of Arsenal’s efforts will go into signing him these days ahead. However, do not be surprised to see Arsenal attempting to do business away from the Draxler saga. Draxler and a loan move for a striker would be a good window for the Arsenal. It could be safe to say expect one or the other.

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